[cpollema]

I am looking for suggestions for PFDs that fit kids well when they transition through the kids sizes and into adult sizes. My son is 11 years old and about 90 lbs. I want to get him out of his 50-90 lbs rated youth PFD into an adult PFD, but the small adult PFDs don't seem to fit him correctly. During the off season, I bought him an NRS Big Water (universal fit). It does adjust to fit correctly, but is not a comfortable fit and tough for him to put on without assistance. Please let me know if you've found good fits for the kids when they top 90 lbs. Thanks!

 

[Ever_Cat]

I don't recall the exact model, but we got my son a MTI pfd when he started pushing the 90 lb mark. He is still using it today at about 120 lbs and it has been great. Definitely check out the MTI pfds.

 

[cpollema]

I don't recall the exact model, but we got my son a MTI pfd when he started pushing the 90 lb mark. He is still using it today at about 120 lbs and it has been great. Definitely check out the MTI pfds.

Ever Cat, thanks for the information. Found the website and some dealers in Denver, will get him down there to try some on. We've checked out all the local shops and can't find something in an adult size that both fits him and is comfortable.

 

[Ever_Cat]

My son has the MTI Reflex II in an adult x-small/small.

MTI Reflex II MTI Reflex II [MTI REflex] - $64.99 : River Mouse Touring Kayaks, The art of Kayak Touring

It looks like this was redesigned in 2009 and is now just the Reflex.

MTI Reflex PFD at REI.com

An internet search shows that companies don't necessarily distinguish between the two but you can tell the difference by the pockets (my son likes the large pockets of the II for collecting!).

Either way I don't think you will go wrong with these.